What's an Open Source Software?

by infohub

Open source software is a type of software where the developers and service providers grant users the access to modify, change, and develop the software as they use it. This type of software is significantly different from closed source software, where the user gets the completely-finished software and does not have the access or the license to modify or change the software.

The objective of developing open source software is to provide users with a framework or shell of the software and allow them to manipulate it, as and how they like it, to suit their personal requirements and working style.

Open source software is the result of and leads to the development of a highly collaborative system, where developers and users work together to make the software more user-friendly. This software is usually maintained by volunteer developers who actively seek ways to make the software easier to use.

A great example is Mozilla Firefox. This is an open source software which allows individual developers to contribute to the development of the software. Developers from around the world can work together on various focus areas including – coding, testing, writing, and translating. These volunteers can also work as trainers and helpers, assisting users in using the software more effectively.

Open source software is a highly fluid and ever-changing entity that undergoes constant change and development. It is well-loved because of the benefits it brings to both the user and the developer.

Advantages of open source software

To the user

It is a safe and secure software to use, with volunteers updating security measures frequently

It can be customized to the user’s requirements very easily and quickly

It can be scaled immediately, without any hindrance

Users have greater freedom to use and change the software as they see fit

It is less resource-intensive and will work on older systems

Bugs and viruses can be easily spotted and fixed

Customer support is excellent; as multiple communities are always available should users need assistance

It is inexpensive and easy to procure

It is easier to switch vendors

To the developer

It is easier to develop, because of the lack of specifications

Development costs are extremely low

It allows developers to make software changes and upgrades on-the-fly

It prevents developers from wasting time and money on the development of functionality that clients rarely use

There are no IP or copyright infringement risks involved

It allows developers to use state-of-the-art technology

It allows developers to hone their skills and experiment on live software

It gives developers a chance to interact with a global community of peers

InfoHub by GoLookUp covers the latest and most comprehensive latest updates, news and information from around the web. InfoHub writers explore the internet and collect, analyze and deliver valuable information for our readers.